For the first time in more than almost twenty years, the most important beauty contest in the world will return to South Florida. (And you know we gays LOVE a beauty contest!) The Miss Universe contest, which took place at the Miami Beach Convention Center for more than a decade during the 60´s and 70´s, will take place on January 25 in Doral on the campus of Florida International University.

Several weeks ago, the Miami Herald reported that the City of Doral would pay $2.5 million to host the competition. The same report also revealed that the city would receive 3 minutes of airtime during the national broadcast of the pageant finale.

In a statement posted on the Miss Universe website, Doral Mayor Luigi Boria said: ¨ The Miss Universe Pageant offers an unprecedented opportunity to showcase the city to millions of viewers, as well as expose our local shops, hotels, restaurants, and attractions to thousands of visitors. Our local economy will be greatly benefited by our partnership with the pageant. Our international presence will be improved further by joining the list of select cities that have hosted this prestigious competition.¨

The Miss Universe Pageant will feature nearly 90 contestants from across the globe. They will be judged in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview. Gabriela Isler, Miss Universe2013 will crown her successor at the conclusion of the telecast.

Isler who hails from Maracay, Venezuela, is the seventh winner from the South American country. Only the US with 8 wins have more than Venezuela.

Who will win? No one knows but Miss Panama, Miss USA, Miss Philippines, and Miss Poland are truly beautiful and are my frontrunners. The show will be broadcast on NBC and Telemundo at 8pm on Sunday January 25. The show will feature returning hosts Thomas Roberts from MSNBC and Natalie Morales from the Today Show on NBC. Tickets for the live broadcast are still available as of press time. For more information, visit MissUniverse.com.